UNHCR Iraq statement on Mosul

Baghdad, Iraq, 10.07.2017: Hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced; many have lost relatives, their homes, and have been injured.

It is likely that many thousands of people may have to remain in displacement for months to come. Many have nothing to go back to, due to extensive damage caused during the conflict, while key basic services, such as water, electricity and other key infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, will need to be rebuilt or repaired. Rebuilding is likely to be slow and costly but is essential to achieve stability and end the cycle of conflict.

In addition, it will likely take some time to clear the area of mines and explosive remnants in order to declare it safe for displaced Iraqis to return. Civilians must not be forced to return to unsafe areas. Any returns should be voluntary, non-discriminatory, safe and sustainable.

However, an end to the battle for Mosul does not signal an end to conflict in Iraq. Areas of the country, such as Hawija, in Kirkuk Governorate, and western districts of Anbar, such as Al Q’aim are still controlled by extremist groups. People continue to be displaced from areas in which fighting is ongoing.

While there may be an end to military conflict in Mosul, there is still no end in sight to the humanitarian crisis. UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, will continue to play a key role in assisting displaced Iraqis for as long as it is necessary.